On December 2024, the night shift on 8 East exemplified exceptional teamwork, professionalism, and dedication. About 20 minutes into the shift, the unit secretary alerted me that the wife of a patient was yelling that her husband was choking. I immediately ran into the room and called for Mahalia to assist.

Upon entering, I positioned myself behind the patient to perform the Heimlich maneuver, while Mahalia quickly assessed the airway and helped the patient sit up. Despite several attempts, we realized the situation was escalating, and we called for additional help. Tragically, we discovered the patient had no pulse. Staff immediately alerted for a stat airway and, soon after, a Code Blue.

What followed was an extraordinary display of teamwork. Mary from day shift, Kari, Jennifer Tidwell, Musa, Mahalia, and I worked in perfect unison to save a life. In my six years at UofL, I have never witnessed such flawless teamwork. The communication in the room was precise and critical to ensuring the best possible care for the patient.

From the initial alert to the coordinated response, the entire team acted with urgency, competence, and compassion. The house manager later remarked on how impressive our team was that night, highlighting the expertise and dedication of everyone involved.

This moment was a true reflection of why we train so hard and what it means to be a nurse. I am incredibly proud to work alongside such talented and caring colleagues. This team effort demonstrated the very best of nursing, and I am honored to nominate the 8 East staff for the DAISY Team Award.